Tracys Song's win streak in jeopardy

Tracys Song's record-breaking winning streak could be in serious jeopardy given a new environment and different driver Saturday.

Kevin Gleason

Tracys Song's record-breaking winning streak could be in serious jeopardy given a new environment and different driver Saturday.

Trainer Bob Lounsbury chose a non-claiming race at Tioga Downs because of concern Tracys Song might be claimed at Monticello Raceway. Tracys Song, an 8-year-old mare, set Monticello's consecutive-wins record amid her 18-race streak.

"I know we've been taking our chances by continuing with her in the $7,500 claiming ranks here at Monticello," Lounsbury said. "But recently, a storm seems to be brewing about (somebody) claiming her."

Tracys Song is listed at 5-to-1 in the morning line for the fourth race for fillies and mares. She has never raced on the five-eighths of a mile distance of Tioga, sticking to Monticello's half-mile track. Lounsbury said that makes it "hard to truly assess our chances."

It will be just the second time during the streak that Bruce Aldrich Jr. won't drive Tracys Song. Aldrich, who has a commitment, also missed the mare's most recent win June 3 when injuries suffered during an earlier race forced him off his remaining mounts. Monticello regular Greg Merton will take over Saturday.

"Though Greg (Merton) has never driven her before, he's a good driver and he knows the track there at Tioga,'' Lounsbury said.

Tracys Song leads North America with 18 wins this year. She broke Monticello's record of 15 straight May 20.